Bone Marrow and Blood Stem Cell Transplants: A Guide for Patients

by Susan K. Stewart

Whether you are a patient, family member or just an interested friend, Bone Marrow and Blood Stem Cell Transplants: A Guide for Patients is chock full of important information you won't want to miss.

This comprehensive and easy-to-read book is a "must" for patients considering a transplant using donor bone marrow, blood stem cells or cord blood. The book walks the reader through what to expect before, during and after transplant and includes the perspective of patients as well as caregivers.

"My transplant center gave me Sue Stewart's Bone Marrow & Blood Stem Cell Transplants: A Guide for Patients, and I consider it my BMT bible. I read it cover to cover and still refer to it to answer questions from other people. It is a fantastic resources for anyone going through a transplant or family member. Thanks, Sue, for writing it! "

Michelle Worman, BMT Support Online

Chapters include

History of TransplantationA historical perspective and look into the future of the uses of bone marrow, peripheral blood stem cell and cord blood transplants.

Nuts and Bolts of a TransplantA comprehensive overview of the stem cell transplantation, including a clear explanation of the differences between bone marrow and peripheral blood stem cell transplants and a narration of post-transplant issues.

Choosing a Transplant CenterA detailed description of key things to look for when choosing a transplant center, including how to interpret "success rates".

Finding a Stem Cell DonorSome patients are fortunate enough to have a family member who is a suitable stem cell donor. Others must search for an unrelated donor. This chapter explains how the search is conducted, and explains the tests used to determine whether a patient and donor are a match.

Being a DonorIn the rush to help the patient who has a serious illness, the questions and concerns of the donor are sometimes overlooked. This chapter describes what's involved in donating bone marrow or peripheral blood stem cells, and shares insights from other donors about emotional challenges that donors often face.

Insurance and FundraisingAn extremely helpful chapter that discusses financial options available to transplant patients including how to handle a denial of insurance coverage, tapping into benefits available from life insurance policies, viatical settlements and how to find organizations that provide financial assistance.

Emotional and Psychological ConsiderationsMany things come into play with news of a transplant. In this chapter you'll find help with getting information, putting things into perspective, dealing with the sense of loss of control, coping with stress, accessing support services, keeping in touch with friends, and getting back to normal.

When Your Child Needs a TransplantA guide for families on the array of issues facing them when a child needs a transplant including involving the child in decision-making, questions children ask, anxiety, life during transplant, loss of control, preparing children for medical procedures, siblings' care, marital stress, going home, and getting back to normal.

Preparative RegimenThe high-dose combination chemotherapy that comprises the preparative regimen frightens many people. This chapter addresses the short- and long-term side effects of the preparative regimen and puts them in perspective.

Graft-versus-Host DiseaseGraft-versus-Host disease is often a complication of a stem cell transplant. This chapter explains the differences between acute and chronic graft-versus-host disease, and steps taken to prevent and treat them.

InfectionA detailed description of, and remedies for, the types of infections that can occur after transplant.

Liver ComplicationsA clear explanation of the short- and long-term effects to the liver that may happen as a result of treatment.

NutritionA detailed description of nutritional problems that can occur after treatment, with concrete suggestions for overcoming them.

CaregivingA caregiver's role is one of the most important yet least explored in the transplant process. This chapter has those who have done it discuss candidly such things as taking time to recharge, accepting help, being the patient's advocate, flexibility and patience, keeping a sense of humor, relaying information to others, changing relationships, and helping children cope.

NEW! Sexuality After TransplantIt's the elephant in the room: sexual difficulties after transplant. No one talks about it upfront, but it is a real consequence of transplant for many. Learn what to expect, how to adjust, and how to continue to have fulfilling sexual relationships after transplant.

NEW! Family PlaningMany transplants survivors are infertile after transplant. Learn about ways to preserve the option of having your own children after transplant, as well as resources for those considering adoption.

NEW! Planning for SurvivorshipYour transplant is over. What lies ahead? Learn what should be in your long-term follow up plan, tests and procedures you will need to watch for complications long-term, and some of the health and emotional challenges you may need to manage.

About Blood CellsBlood is composed of many different types of cells. Learn the names of the various cells and what their role is in keeping you healthy.

Understanding Blood TestsLearn what the various blood tests are measuring, and what values are considered normal.